Dhaka North BNP convener and Dhaka-16 candidate Aminul Haque has alleged that a few political parties in Bangladesh are misusing religion to deceive the public and gain political power. Speaking at a prayer and campaign rally in Rupnagar on Friday, he criticized these parties for not participating in people’s movements before August 5 and questioned their sudden religious positioning. Haque specifically pointed to Jamaat-e-Islami’s past, recalling its controversial role during the 1971 Liberation War and accusing it of collaborating with Pakistani forces. He argued that those now presenting themselves as Islamic parties had remained inactive for years. The BNP leader also highlighted the contributions of party founder Ziaur Rahman and chairperson Khaleda Zia in uniting the nation and restoring democracy. The event concluded with a procession supporting the BNP’s election symbol, the paddy sheaf, through Rupnagar and Eastern Housing areas, signaling the party’s intensified campaign efforts in Dhaka-16.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has claimed that party chief Khaleda Zia’s health is in grave danger due to what he described as continued political repression under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s rule. In a Facebook post on December 5, Rahman accused the government of subjecting Zia to imprisonment and harassment, saying her life now faces a critical stage. Rahman’s statement coincided with the anniversary of the fall of military ruler Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1990, which he recalled as a milestone in Bangladesh’s democratic struggle. He praised Khaleda Zia’s leadership during that period and alleged that the current Awami League government has again undermined democracy. Rahman urged opposition supporters to remain united to restore democratic values and resist what he called authoritarian governance. The remarks come amid ongoing political tensions and concerns over Khaleda Zia’s deteriorating health. BNP leaders have repeatedly demanded her release for medical treatment abroad, while the government maintains that legal procedures must be followed.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has donated financial aid to the Baitul Mamur Jame Mosque in Dhaka’s Korail slum, which was severely damaged in a recent fire. The donation was handed over on Friday by BNP Health Affairs Secretary Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam on behalf of Rahman. Following the Friday prayers, a special prayer session was held seeking the recovery of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia and the well-being of Tarique Rahman. Several BNP-affiliated doctors and medical students attended the event, including Dr. S.M. Shahidul Hasan Babu and Dr. Zahidul Kabir. The fire, which broke out on November 25, destroyed parts of the slum and affected hundreds of residents. Under Rahman’s direction, BNP organized a two-day medical camp on November 27–28, providing healthcare to about 3,000 people. The donation reflects BNP’s continued engagement in humanitarian relief efforts and community outreach following disasters. Party leaders indicated that mosque repairs would begin soon, with further assistance planned for affected residents.

The United States has reduced the validity period of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for refugees, asylum seekers, and certain other foreign nationals from five years to 18 months. The new rule, announced by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) under the Department of Homeland Security, will apply to 19 categories of foreign residents, including those protected from deportation. The policy change follows a series of stricter immigration measures introduced by President Donald Trump’s administration since taking office in January 2024. Trump had pledged during his campaign to tighten both legal and illegal immigration. The administration previously raised H-1B visa fees and recently suspended immigration processes for citizens of 19 countries after a deadly incident involving an Afghan refugee in Washington, D.C. Officials say the shorter renewal period will enhance background checks and monitoring, but immigrant advocacy groups warn it could increase administrative burdens and uncertainty for refugees seeking stability in the US.

Mojibur Rahman Manju, the AB Party’s (Eagle symbol) candidate for the Feni Sadar constituency, announced his intention to pursue what he termed 'new politics' free from the divisive and corrupt practices of traditional politics. Speaking during a public outreach event in Kazirbag on Friday evening, Manju emphasized the need to move away from political jealousy, poster vandalism, and misuse of development funds by local musclemen. He argued that the old political culture—marked by hostility between parties and misuse of public resources—has long hindered progress. Referring to his party’s role in the July mass uprising, Manju said that people now trust them to bring change. He also acknowledged the contributions of earlier political figures while urging collective efforts for reform. The event was attended by several AB Party leaders from the Chattogram division and Feni district, signaling the party’s growing grassroots mobilization ahead of the upcoming national elections.

The Trump administration has issued a stark warning to Europe in its newly released National Security Strategy, claiming that the continent risks losing its 'Western identity' within two decades if current trends continue. The 33-page document outlines the United States’ global vision, military priorities, and political strategies, emphasizing concerns over immigration, declining birth rates, and restrictions on free speech as key threats to Europe’s stability. European leaders have reacted sharply to the report, with Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul rejecting the notion that Europe needs external advice on its social values. He reaffirmed the U.S. as a vital NATO ally but criticized the inclusion of cultural and ideological issues in a security strategy. European media outlets noted that the tone of the document echoes Trump’s earlier United Nations speech, where he criticized Western Europe’s immigration and energy policies. The strategy also highlights the growing influence of nationalist movements in Europe, which Washington views favorably, and calls for deeper U.S. involvement in managing Europe’s relationship with Russia. Analysts suggest the document could shape future transatlantic relations and defense policies.

The National Citizens Party (NCP) has called for the election schedule to be announced only after all political parties are ready to participate. NCP convener Nahid Islam made the statement on Friday, December 5, during a discussion titled “The Future of Investment in Bangladesh” at Hotel Sheraton in Dhaka. He emphasized that the Election Commission (EC) will decide on the schedule, but political inclusiveness should be ensured first. Nahid Islam clarified that the NCP is not against elections and wants to move forward through democratic participation. He dismissed speculation about hidden alliances, saying the party has neither formal nor informal agreements with any group. The NCP plans to announce its list of candidates soon and is continuing talks about forming a third political alliance. He added that reforms must continue beyond the election and that the NCP seeks to build a new political culture. Nahid also noted that the current electoral environment is not fully conducive but expressed optimism if no internal or foreign interference occurs.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami chief Dr. Shafiqur Rahman on Friday declared that the future of Bangladesh would be guided by the Quran, emphasizing that his party seeks victory for the aspirations of 180 million citizens rather than for any specific political group. He made the remarks while addressing a divisional rally in Chattogram organized by an eight-party alliance demanding political reforms and justice for alleged past abuses. Rahman accused the former Awami League government of corruption, repression, and misuse of national resources, alleging that the party ruled with ‘bloody hands’ and left the country in turmoil. He also claimed that despite the fall of the previous regime, fascism still lingers in the country and warned that no new form of authoritarianism would be tolerated. The eight-party coalition continues to press its five-point demand, including a pre-election referendum, proportional representation in parliament, and trials for alleged atrocities and corruption. Rahman signaled that street protests would persist until these demands are met, hinting at renewed mass mobilization if necessary.

BNP Standing Committee member and Cox’s Bazar-1 candidate Salahuddin Ahmed pledged that no citizen would die without medical care if his party returns to power. Speaking at an election rally in Bahaddarkata Station, Chakaria, he reaffirmed BNP’s commitment to restoring democracy, rule of law, and citizens’ rights. Ahmed said the party’s mission is to build a Bangladesh where every person’s fundamental and human rights are protected. He emphasized that the people of Bangladesh have regained their right to vote after years of struggle and urged them to exercise it in the upcoming national election. Ahmed also promised that under Tarique Rahman’s leadership, BNP would complete the unfinished work of late president Ziaur Rahman. His pledges included introducing agricultural cards, ensuring fair prices for farmers, and expanding social safety nets for poor families. Local BNP leaders, including former MP Hasina Ahmed and several organizational secretaries, attended the event, signaling strong grassroots mobilization ahead of the election.

A lion that escaped from its enclosure at Dhaka’s Mirpur National Zoo on Friday afternoon has been safely recaptured after being tranquilized. The incident occurred between 4:30 p.m. and 4:45 p.m., prompting zoo officials to evacuate visitors from nearby areas as a precaution. The lion remained within the zoo premises and did not enter any public zones, according to officials. Zoo curator Dr. Atikur Rahman stated that the animal was kept calm with food before being sedated using an anesthesia dart. Director Dr. Rafiqul Islam noted that the escape likely occurred through the enclosure’s main access gate, though it remains unclear whether a lock malfunction or human error was responsible. An internal investigation has been initiated to determine the cause. Authorities confirmed that the situation was under control throughout the incident. The zoo currently houses five lions, including the one that briefly escaped. Officials said safety protocols will be reviewed to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

A lion escaped from its enclosure at the Mirpur Zoo in Dhaka on Friday afternoon, prompting an immediate response from zoo authorities. The incident occurred around 4:45 p.m., according to Zoo Director Rafiqul Islam Talukder, who confirmed that the lion remained within the zoo premises and had not harmed anyone. Officials quickly evacuated visitors and deployed tranquilizer teams to capture the animal safely. Talukder stated that the situation was under control and that staff were monitoring the lion’s movements closely. Preliminary assessments suggested that the animal may have exited through an unlocked door, as no signs of damage or broken grills were found. The zoo administration has launched an internal investigation to determine how the lapse occurred and to prevent future incidents. Authorities expect to recapture the lion soon and are reviewing safety protocols across all enclosures. The temporary closure of the zoo is being considered until the situation is fully resolved.

Israel has announced a significant increase in its defense budget, raising it to 112 billion shekels ($34.7 billion) for the new fiscal year—about $7 billion higher than the previous allocation. The decision, jointly endorsed by Defense Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, awaits final approval from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the cabinet before being submitted to the Knesset. The move comes despite an ongoing ceasefire in Gaza, prompting questions about the timing and intent behind the expansion. Katz explained that the additional funds are meant to meet the operational needs of the armed forces and ease the burden on reservists. According to the Finance Ministry, the 2026 defense budget will be 47 billion shekels ($14.5 billion) higher than in 2023. Israel reportedly spent around $31 billion in 2024 on military operations in Gaza and against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Analysts suggest the budget increase reflects Israel’s long-term security strategy and preparation for potential regional escalations, even as diplomatic efforts continue to stabilize the Gaza situation.

The Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh has urged the public and media to avoid spreading unverified information regarding the schedule and date of the upcoming national parliamentary elections. Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed stated on Friday, December 5, that no final decision has yet been made on the announcement of the election timetable. He emphasized that any date being circulated is based on personal assumptions and not official confirmation. Recent media reports have speculated that the election schedule might be announced on December 11, with voting possibly taking place in February. The EC is set to hold a formal meeting on Sunday to discuss the election schedule and has also requested a meeting with President Mohammed Shahabuddin to consult on the matter. According to sources, the President has agreed to meet the EC on December 10 at noon. The EC’s caution highlights its efforts to maintain transparency and prevent misinformation as political parties and voters await the official election timeline.

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Abu Sadiq Kayem, also a central leader of Islami Chhatra Shibir, has called for a move away from what he described as India-oriented politics toward a Bangladesh-centered political approach. Speaking as the chief guest at a student and citizen rally organized by Jamaat-e-Islami in Chhatak, Sunamganj, on Friday, he warned that any attempt to govern the country in a 'fascist manner' would face strong public resistance. Kayem emphasized that the youth must play a more conscious role in the current political climate, noting former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia’s historical role in anti-fascist movements and wishing her recovery from illness. Other speakers, including former principal Abdus Salam Al Madani and local Jamaat leaders, stressed the importance of democratic values, rule of law, and freedom of expression to overcome the nation’s political and social crises. The hour-long rally concluded peacefully, with participants calling for justice, good governance, and a politics rooted in national interest rather than external influence.

Russia has proposed building small modular reactors (SMRs) and floating nuclear power plants in India, expanding their long-standing nuclear cooperation. During his recent visit to New Delhi, President Vladimir Putin discussed the initiative with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing Moscow’s readiness to ensure continuous energy supply to India. Putin highlighted the progress of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, Russia’s largest nuclear project in India, where two of six planned reactors are already connected to the national grid. The remaining four units are under construction. He also mentioned future collaboration in non-energy nuclear technologies, including isotope applications in medicine and agriculture. The proposal comes amid U.S. pressure on India to reduce energy imports from Russia, citing concerns that such trade supports Moscow’s war efforts in Ukraine. Despite these tensions, India continues to prioritize affordable and clean energy partnerships, with the new Russian proposal potentially reshaping its nuclear energy landscape.